The team at Dooley’s Hotel on Waterford’s Quayside is celebrating a Gold Award this week. CIÉ Tours named the hotel Best 3 Star Hotel in Ireland at its prestigious annual Awards of Excellence.

CIÉ Tours is the largest carrier of US visitors to Ireland each year. Its annual Awards of Excellence celebrate outstanding Irish hotels and tourism experience operators. Now in their 34th year, the awards are based on post-stay feedback from CIÉ Tours customers.

Speaking about the achievement, Tina Darrer of Dooley’s Hotel said:
“This recognition means so much to us because it comes directly from our guests. It reflects the care, consistency and pride our entire team brings to their work every day. To receive this award from CIÉ Tours for the fourth time, and for the second year in a row, is incredibly rewarding. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported and stayed with us over the years.”

Dooley’s Hotel topped a highly competitive category to claim the award.

Commenting on the event, CIÉ Tours said:
“We proudly celebrate the very best of hospitality, chosen by our guests. The incredible hotels, attractions, restaurants and local experiences make every CIÉ Tours journey unforgettable. A special congratulations to our Gold Award winners, who deliver the very best in Irish hospitality.

Our awards rely entirely on feedback from tens of thousands of travellers. In 2025, CIÉ Tours once again achieved an outstanding guest satisfaction rating of 95%. This result reflects the warmth, dedication, and excellence of our tourism partners across Ireland.

When you travel with CIÉ Tours, you enjoy Ireland’s most-loved experiences. These include welcoming dining and accommodation, thrilling music and dance shows, and authentic cultural encounters that stay with you long after your trip ends.”

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